Crown of Thorns

The Crown of Thorns, scientifically known as Euphorbia milii, is a popular and striking succulent plant native to Madagascar. It is known for its sharp thorns and colorful bracts that surround small flowers, giving it a unique and eye-catching appearance.

This plant typically grows to about 1 to 3 feet in height and spreads 1 to 2 feet. It features thick, fleshy stems covered with sharp, inch-long spines, which is how it got its common name, Crown of Thorns. The leaves are small, green, and oval-shaped, but they may fall off to conserve water and energy.

One of the most attractive aspects of Euphorbia milii is its flowers, which are actually small and inconspicuous. The showy part of its blooms is the colorful bracts, which can be red, pink, yellow, or white. These bracts appear throughout the year but are more abundant in brighter light conditions.

The Crown of Thorns thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It's drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly, especially during the winter. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

In landscaping, Crown of Thorns is often used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, cactus gardens, and as a container plant, both indoors and outdoors. Its colorful bracts and unique, spiny appearance make it a popular choice for adding interest and a splash of color to gardens and homes.

Overall, the Crown of Thorns is a low-maintenance and visually appealing plant, ideal for gardeners looking for a drought-tolerant and exotic addition to their plant collection. Its striking appearance, combined with its colorful and long-lasting bracts, makes it a favorite among both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.